They only play the ANZAC Test so NZRL makes money....they play it in Australia as they make double in gate takings and sponsorship. The Kiwis are the only source of funding outside sports grants for NZRL. In the RLWC year NZRL needs to find $1mil to fund the Kiwis, hence why the spend the past 2-3 years building that money up...and that's why League outside Auckland (Auckland RL fund themselves due to Carlaw Park investment) gets little to nothing. This was confirmed by the past NZRL Chairman that did a road show just before the 2014 Four Nations.....his exact words were 'the Kiwis are the ONLY asset NZRL have'.
Why do you think the Kiwis went to England in 2015 and why the Kiwis played Aussie in a meaningless test last year in Perth? The Kiwis get the short end of the stick because unfortunately they are the only way of funding the game which most goes back into them for RLWC year anyway...even then I'm pretty sure ARL contributes player payments for the kiwis for the ANZAC test.
Its f**ken disgraceful that for the past 20 years of playing the ANZAC test, only two have been in NZ....no wonder the results have been so lopsided.
This is not a good situation
Kiwis never playing in NZ, for a short term payday, prevents them from getting long term respect at home, marketability, sponsorships, effects their winning record, etc.
Even if the supposed ANZAC test is played in Aus, the Kiwis should play another game at home. If Australia aren't keen, invite England, Scotland (actually this could get embarrassing), Samoa, PNG, whoever. Even breaking even financially is a good result if it gets them home recognition.
As for other assets, what are the options?
An NZ 2nd tier comp that is good enough quality to be televised and sponsored.
A 'Challenge Cup' style club tournament.
NZ North v South or Auckland v the rest, Origin style event.
Hosting an International Nines tournament.
Hopefully they make some money out of the WC and can look at expanding their calendar to bring in regular coin.
